- Corey et. al tell us that while it is ethical to consult with colleagues, "It is a good policy for counselors to inform their clients that they may consult with other professionals on their cases" (Corey, 2007, p.168-169)
- The ACA Code of Ethics says the following about consultation:
- ACA Code of Ethics, Section C.2.e.
"Counselors take reasonable steps to consult with other counselors or related professionals when they have questions regarding their ethical obligations or professional practice."
- ACA Code of Ethics, Section H, Introduction
"Counselors strive to resolve ethical dilemmas with direct and open communication among all parties involved and seek consultations with colleagues and supervisors when necessary"
- ACA Code of Ethics, Section H.2.d.
"When uncertain as to whether a particular situation or course of action may be in violation of the ACA Code of Ethics, counselors consult with other counselors who are knowledgeable about ethics and the ACA Code of Ethics, with colleagues, or with appropriate authorities."
I am still somewhat unclear as to what the consensus is regarding whether or not the organization's private status makes a difference in this case. That aside, it seems clear, according to the ACA Code, that consultation is not an absolute, across-the-board obligation. Counselors must consult colleagues "when they have questions", "when necessary," "when uncertain," the code says.
Mark Hopkins may know exactly what he needs to do in this case, i.e., not offer counseling to Peter Hall as Hopkins' anti-gay views are likely to be harmful to Hall. Having said that, it might behoove Hopkins to speak with colleagues about the best way to refer Hall so that he does not feel abandoned.
On the other hand, Hopkins might not know the proper course of action. As such, he could consult colleagues:
upon the surfacing of this dilemma as to what to do...
upon choosing a course of action as to how to best carry it out.
(Michael)
- Corey et. al tell us that while it is ethical to consult with colleagues, "It is a good policy for counselors to inform their clients that they may consult with other professionals on their cases" (Corey, 2007, p.168-169)
- The ACA Code of Ethics says the following about consultation:
- ACA Code of Ethics, Section C.2.e.
"Counselors take reasonable steps to consult with other counselors or related professionals when they have questions regarding their ethical obligations or professional practice."
- ACA Code of Ethics, Section H, Introduction
"Counselors strive to resolve ethical dilemmas with direct and open communication among all parties involved and seek consultations with colleagues and supervisors when necessary"
- ACA Code of Ethics, Section H.2.d.
"When uncertain as to whether a particular situation or course of action may be in violation of the ACA Code of Ethics, counselors consult with other counselors who are knowledgeable about ethics and the ACA Code of Ethics, with colleagues, or with appropriate authorities."
I am still somewhat unclear as to what the consensus is regarding whether or not the organization's private status makes a difference in this case. That aside, it seems clear, according to the ACA Code, that consultation is not an absolute, across-the-board obligation. Counselors must consult colleagues "when they have questions", "when necessary," "when uncertain," the code says.
Mark Hopkins may know exactly what he needs to do in this case, i.e., not offer counseling to Peter Hall as Hopkins' anti-gay views are likely to be harmful to Hall. Having said that, it might behoove Hopkins to speak with colleagues about the best way to refer Hall so that he does not feel abandoned.
On the other hand, Hopkins might not know the proper course of action. As such, he could consult colleagues:
upon the surfacing of this dilemma as to what to do...
upon choosing a course of action as to how to best carry it out.